Tops in Blue brings the gift of music to service members away from home

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicole Sikorski
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Hundreds of Team Incirlik members gathered to witness an energetic and colorful musical performance by Tops in Blue Dec.14, here.

After hours of set up and rehearsal for the production, the lights and stage were set, performers were ready and the audience waited to be wowed.

The concert-like show consisted of a variety of music from different genres such as country, rock, pop and many others from a mix of generations. There were favorites for the whole family as well as some seasonal holiday spirit with some Christmas tunes toward the end of the show.

"I thought the performance was great," said Airman 1st Class Robert Acevedo, 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron, fuels hydrant system operator. "I was very impressed with the musical talent of the performers, and it's a great builder for Airmen morale around the holidays."

Tops in Blue has entertained more than 250,000 service members and their families in 20 countries presenting an average of 120 performances at 100 locations worldwide since 1953.

With the current budget cuts across the Air Force, Tops in Blue has brought back alumni performers who have volunteered to share "The Gift of Music" with service members around the globe.

"It was outstanding to perform here at Incirlik," said Capt. retired Sarah Cantrell, Tops in Blue vocalist. "Ever since we touched down, everything has been electric. Everyone has been accommodating and it has been free of stress."

The group of traveling performers consisted of 28 Airmen comprised of vocalists, dancers, musicians and technicians.

With long hours and an on-the-go schedule, Tops in Blue performers like Cantrell and Staff Sgt. Monique Pearson, 559th Aerospace Medical Squadron public health technician and Tops in Blue vocalist, must have a passion for the work they do.

"It was an amazing experience to come out here and perform for everybody," said Pearson. "Seeing everyone's face light up is awesome."

Airmen from all across the Air Force step out of their daily duties to bring joy through performances to service members around the world.

For more information about Tops in Blue, visit www.topsinblue.com